Hervé Renard in talks to replace Pape Thiaw after Senegal's World Cup exit

Senegal was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup by Belgium in the Round of 16 (3-2 a.e.t.) on Wednesday, despite leading 2-0 until the 85th minute. The Belgian comeback could cost Pape Thiaw his job.

The disappointment is all the greater as the Lions of Teranga had already endured a difficult group stage, suffering defeats to France (3-1) and Norway (3-2), before qualifying as best third-placed team. Elimination by Belgium under these circumstances immediately reignited criticism of the head coach.

According to Sport News Africa, the Senegalese Football Federation did not wait for the tournament to end to explore alternatives. Hervé Renard was reportedly contacted at the start of the World Cup, at a time when Pape Thiaw was threatening to leave his post due to lack of a signed contract — he only signed his deal five hours before kick-off of the first match against Norway.

Renard, 56, presents a profile that fits both Senegal’s history and ambitions. The former head coach of the French women’s national team had himself discussed his interest in the position in an interview with RFI: “I will go one day, if I’m called. It’s not a dream, but who doesn’t want to coach the best teams on a continent?” He had also clarified that his wife, of Senegalese origin, had dissuaded him from accepting a previous approach.

At the time of Senegal’s elimination, Renard was serving in a caretaker role on the Tunisia bench, where he had replaced Sabri Lamouchi during the competition. That adventure ended with elimination for the Eagles of Carthage, and Sport News Africa indicates that Tunisian officials have received confirmation of his imminent departure — Senegal being among his possible destinations.

The Senegalese Federation has not yet made any official decision regarding Pape Thiaw, whose future should become clearer in the coming days.